Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Depending on the tooth replacement needs of the patient, implants can be topped with crowns, bridges, or dentures to restore one or more missing teeth. Implants offer a long-lasting solution to tooth loss, restoring both smile aesthetics and function. They integrate with the jawbone over time through a process called osseointegration, ensuring enhanced stability and a more natural look and feel than traditional dentures or bridges.
Contact us today to learn more about how our Blaine dentists can help patients experiencing tooth loss improve their oral health and overall quality of life using dental implants.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Potential benefits include:
- Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function just like natural teeth
- Improved comfort and confidence when eating, speaking, and smiling
- Implants are durable and long-lasting, and they are considered a permanent solution to tooth loss once they successfully fuse with the jawbone
- The implant posts stimulate the jaw bone and gum tissues, preventing the bone loss and gum recession that often follows tooth loss
- Implants are widely considered more comfortable and convenient than traditional dentures, since they are affixed firmly in the mouth and do not require adhesives
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implant candidacy depends on various factors. Generally, suitable candidates should have good overall health and sufficient jawbone density to support the implant(s). In cases where a patient’s jawbone has deteriorated, a bone grafting procedure may be indicated in order to help restore bone density and increase the likelihood of implant success. Ideal candidates should either be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking for the duration of the treatment process, as smoking can impair healing and elevates a patient’s risk for numerous other negative oral health outcomes. Ultimately, a thorough evaluation by a dentist is essential to determine if dental implants are the right option on a case-by-case basis.
What Are My Dental Implant Treatment Options?
Depending on the needs of the patient, there are different types of dental implant restorations.
Single-Tooth Implants
Single-tooth implants are designed to replicate the entire structure of a single missing tooth. The implant post acts as an artificial root while the abutment and crown fill the gap left behind in your smile, restoring chewing and speaking function while promoting long-term jaw health.
Multi-Tooth Dental Implants & Implant Bridges
Implant bridges are multi-tooth restorations where one or more implants are used to support a custom-crafted dental bridge. Multi-tooth implant restorations allow patients to restore multiple adjacent missing teeth using fewer implants, potentially reducing overall cost and recovery time while still promoting the health of the jawbone.
All-on-4 Implant-Supported Dentures
All-on-4 implant-supported dentures are an innovative method of full-arch replacement where a few strategically placed implant posts (usually 4-8) are used to support a denture prosthetic. All-on-4 is often ideal for patients seeking an alternative to traditional removable dentures due to the superior comfort, aesthetics, and functionality associated with implant restorations. During a consultation, one of our dentists can assess your goals and determine whether All-on-4 is right for you.
What Does the Dental Implant Procedure Entail?
The dental implant treatment process involves several steps. First, a comprehensive dental exam and imaging are performed to assess jawbone health and determine implant placement. If needed, preparatory care—such as tooth extractions, periodontal therapy, or bone grafting—may be performed to prepare the mouth for treatment. Next, the titanium implant post(s) are surgically placed into the jawbone. For implant-supported dentures, between 2 and 8 posts will be placed.
The osseointegration process typically takes a few months, during which the implant(s) heal and fuse with the jawbone for a secure, long-lasting fit. Once your dentist has determined that osseointegration is complete, the implant(s) will be topped with custom-fabricated crowns, bridges, or denture prosthetics.
What Can I Expect After Dental Implant Surgery?
For the first few days after dental implant surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling, especially around the surgical site(s). Pain medication and cold packs can help manage these symptoms. Patients are encouraged to eat a soft diet for the first few days after surgery, after which they can gradually progress to regular foods. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, but gentle brushing is advised around the surgical area. Smoking and vaping should be avoided during the healing period to prevent complications. Follow-up appointments with your dentist will be scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the implants integrate properly with the jawbone. Full recovery typically takes a few months, at which point the final restoration can be affixed and the treatment can be considered complete.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implant treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the type of restoration being placed (crowns, bridges, or dentures), and any additional treatments required, such as bone grafting. Dental insurance coverage may also affect the overall cost. Once one of our dentists has had a chance to examine your mouth and consult with you regarding your treatment goals, we can provide you with a personalized price quote.
Contact Legacy Dental Care today to learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists.